Alternatives to anti-Maori themes in news media

Recently the contributors of Treaty Blog received an email regarding a new educational resource. Called "Alternatives to anti-Maori themes in news media", it is a media booklet created and shared by The Treaty Resource Centre. It is available both online and, by request, in hard copy.

"The news media are not neutral or objective. Studies show that the news repeats and reinforces negative themes about Māori that date from the earliest days of colonisation."

There are thirteen themes presented, flowing from " Pākehā as the norm" to "Ignorance and Insensivity" and " Māori success". It reveals the negative attitudes that prevail in our current climate and offers alternative actions and statements that can be used to counter these themes.  The Treaty Resource Centre says "These negative themes present Māori interests and what Māori do as problems, or as being on the margins. They also help make Pākehā control over institutions, resources, society and culture seem right and natural. "
This is a living document. The Treaty Resource Centre encourages you to submit examples of your own. The Treaty blog authors also encourage your additions - the more information shared, the quicker we can challenge and change the current paradigms in the media and other arenas.

Go to the website to view and contribute and please share this fantastic resource widely.

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